Welcome to Damask

Gujarat Textile Trails

During my various visits to different countries people approached me and asked me many questions about India .They shared their fears and at the same time desire to visit India. There are many myths due to lack of information about this huge country. This inspired me to start my own travel division .This is the first year when we are organizing these tours ,we welcome you to come and enjoy the specialized textiles tours ,designed specially for you .we can also do custom made tours for special craft enthusiasts.

Welcome to India

Brief Introduction of India

Travelers have been coming to India since time immemorial, reasons vary-gold treasures ,beautiful hand made textiles, natural dyes ,architecture ,religion ,the search for nirvana being a few of them . A brief introduction

North of India –Jammu- Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Uttaranchal, together comprise the north of India. These also happen to be the coldest parts of the country during winter season. Natural beauty is in abundance here,

*for the textile lovers Kashmir shawls, Kashmir silks, Phulkari of Punjab, weaving of Uttaranchal can be of added interest .*

Central India- Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh have important historical symbols like Khajuraho, The Taj Mahal at Agra, Ayodhya, etc. For textile lover’s batik of Bhopal, gold weaving of Varanasi /Benaras, block printing of Bagh, Chikan-kaari embroidery of Lucknow, etc are the mail attractions.

Central West-Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra comprise the western states of central India. All three being important centers of handicraft. Gujarat and Rajasthan are absolute treasure houses for anyone who can appreciate handcrafted products .Some of the crafts unique to only these two states are tie and dye –Baandhani and Leheriya, Gold and silver block printing, Rogan painting and printing ,Ajrakh printing , appliqué ,patchwork ,specific embroideries like Sooph, Mutwa, Rabaari ,etc.

Central East-Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal are the eastern corners of Central India .cotton and Tussah weaving, Ikats and Kantha embroidery being the most interesting textile crafts here.

North East –Arunchal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalya, etc produce some very beautiful woven and embroidery products.

South of India –Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu together make south of India the most enchanting area. One not only comes across a completely different version of Indian cuisine ,but also the culture is quite different than the rest of India .Cotton and silk Products woven in these states and are much sought after as they have their own identity. Kalamkari is an important craft practiced only in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat in India, both having their unique subjects and forms.

Introduction to Gujarat

Gujarat – Gujarat is the western most corner on the centre of India. Gujarat is bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west and south west and Pakistan to the northwest .It is surrounded by the following states - Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Ahmedabad Though the capital is Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad is practically the most important city in Gujarat today, Well known for its beautiful architectural monuments, as well as traditional textiles. Earlier known as the Manchester of India, it is still a very important textile and garment production centre for the entire country .A very important centre for some unique block printing and resist dyeing skills. It was founded in the year 1411 AD; it is named after Sultan Ahmed Shah, who was the major component in building the city.

Ahmedabad is also a very important centre of education. It boasts of the countries best design institute called NID-National Institute of design, IIM-Indian institute of management, school of architecture –here is also considered one of the top most in Asia. Calico museum, a private museum divided into a painting and a textile section is visited by people from the entire world. The entire city is divided by the Saabarmati River.

Kutch and Saurashtra are the other regional divisions of Gujarat. A cluster of villages with a few small towns like Bhuj, Gandhidham, etc, Kutch is a major centre of attraction for tourist from all around the world. Till today one can find herds of camels with nomads traveling in group’s .Each community has its own identity in terms of cuts of garments, surface decoration on the same, Jewelry, housing styles, etc.

Saurashtra is famous for its siesta system, shawl weaving, Baandhani’s of Jaamnagar, and a lovely laid back attitude. Jaamnagar was founded in 1540 AD ,is also known as the “Jewel of Kathiawad” .it is a coastal town about 300 kilometers west of Ahmedabad and 92 kilometers from Rajkot.

North Gujarat –has the most amazing technique of Patola –double Ikat, which is now practiced by only one family. Like the Chinese never taught the silk weaving to the daughters same is true for the Salvis. Patola made for royalty of south East Asia historically remains rare and unique.

The Textile Tours:

Delhi ahmedabad Delhi-textile tour 13.9.2009-23.10.09

Guide: Kamaldeep Kaur

Kamal deep Kaur started traveling across Gujarat in the year 1997, when she was working with Gujarat handicraft development corporation –GURJARI. She is a fashion designer, working with traditional textiles techniques .This often takes her to the roots, the villages where the crafts are actually practiced. In the process she studies their lifestyles, their costumes, etc. She has been traveling all over the world to market the products that’s she creates with the women in the villages.

A specialized textile tour of Gujarat’s most prominent textile centers

Tour 1 Ahmedabad, Paatan, and Kutch 13.9.2009-23.9.2009

Paatan the ancient capital of Gujarat until 1411 is a small town with fascinating architectural monuments. We will witness the survival of the two most rare textile crafts here.
Kutch which is a cluster of villages is most fascinating as each village seems to be a world of its own. Each village practices its own craft; the inhabitants are from different communities sharing space together to fulfill each others basic needs.

Day 1 -Delhi

Welcome to India- a country where hospitality is a way of life; to a culture steeped in tradition, a land where history lives in music and dance. You will be received at the airport in a traditional manner with garlands and proceed to your hotel for overnight stay.

13/09/2009 Arrival in Delhi by your respective flights early morning
Sunday DELHI 13.9.2009
Morning after breakfast, you will proceed for a guided Heritage Tour through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Your leader would be your guide who would unfold the colorful history of Old Delhi which goes back thousands of years. Visit Chandani Chowk---Silver Square (Once the centre of Delhi), to the various places of interest- just as the Royal Mughals would have done centuries ago. To name a few are Maulana Azad Tomb, Jama Masjid- India ’s largest mosque, Dariba Kalan (The Silver Bazaar), Kinari Bazaar, Paranthawalla Gali...
You will drive pass the The Red Fort (Delhi's most magnificent monument was built by Emperor Shah Jehan.Some of the buildings it encloses are Diwani-am,Diwani-Khas, Rang Mahal,The Pearl Mosque etc.) and Raj Ghat ( Set in the midst of deep green lawns, Rajghat is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. A memorial to the father of the nation, Rajghat is a simple square platform with a black memorial stone with "Hey Ram" inscribed on it. "Hey Ram" were the last words uttered by the Mahatma before collapsing after being shot at).
The Sightseeing of Old Delhi will be followed by your lunch with Indian/Chinese Speciality Cuisine at one of the Local Restaurants.
Continue your sightseeing in the afternoon with a visit of New Delhi covering Rashtrapati Bhawan (is the official residence of the President of India. Formerly the residence of the Viceroy of India, it has a magnificient view of the Rajpath and symmetrical North and South block Govt offices), India Gate (is a majestic high arch,42 metres high, built as a memorial to the Indian Soldiers killed in world war 1) and The Qutab Minar (The 72.5m high tower dates back to the 13th century and is one of the greatest bequests of the Islamic culture).
On arrival at the airport, you will check-in for your onward journey to Ahmedabad.
MEAL PLAN: BREAKFAST + LUNCH (INDIAN / CHINESE SPECIALITY)

Day 2

Heritage walk, textile museum, Kalamkaari, Gandhi Ashram
14/09/2009
-Heritage walk –A refreshing walk designed by an architect, to take you through the living heritage of the old city. We will take on a walk through polls
-After the walk we drive to visit - Calico museum/ Shreyas museum-Some of the oldest examples of textile techniques and paintings from all over India are found here. It has a technical gallery also, which houses all the tools and displays the techniques. It is a private museum.

- Lunch at House of MG Heritage hotel (Local Gujarati Vegetarian lunch)

After lunch we proceed to see- Kalamkaari is an ancient technique and is practiced only in shrikalahasti (south of India) and Ahmedabad. The paintings are depictions of religious stories, from ancient Hindu mythology. We will have a live demonstration by the Kalamkaari craftsmen; and delve hands on in the most exceptional technique with the only family left practicing the same. This process is done entirely in natural dyes, which are plant based and mineral based.
Over night at hotel
Dinner at Hotel

Day 3

Block printing, NID, book shop, Lace shop, Antiques
15/09/2009
Today we take you on -A visit to some unique block printing centers- Ahmedabad has been historically house to many communities that were adorned in block printing costumes. Each of these block print designs were not only different in terms of design, but also in terms of printing techniques. We will witness some of the procedures by visiting the block printing units.
Ahmedabad block printing; as we call it now , practiced by one of the families for generations .the colours use are acid washed for fastness ,and the process is quite long .The result is a fabric with very fast colours. Cotton fabrics are available on very good prices as this is the manufacturing unit.

- Lunch at Hotel

After Lunch we- Visit NID-National Institute of Design, a multiple discipline design institute. Apparel, textiles, ceramic, toy, animation, exhibition design being some of the courses (Optional if interested)
-Art book centre –a unique book shop with an incredible collection of art and textile books, a must visit for all art lovers
-Lace shop-An amazing collection of laces, buttons, and embroidery materials for the artist in you.(optional)
-Antiques –antiques from India have found a place in the permanent collections of some of the greatest museums of the world, we can visit some of the antique collectors to experience some rare textiles from the ancient world.
Dinner at Mirch Masala –An enchanting theme restaurant
Overnight at Hotel

Day 4
Block making, Gandhi Ashram, Law garden
16/09/2009

-Today we start our day by visiting the Block making artisans –a beautiful village (Pethapur) or some other place do u have in mind which has a long history of block makers .Blocks are supplied form here to most of the block printing houses in Gujarat .We can observe the process of fine carving and also buy some hand made wooden blocks.
-Lunch at Cambay Spa Resort Gandhinagar (non-veg)
-After Lunch we visit- Gandhi Ashram –a tribute to the person who had spread the message of non violence to the entire world. This ashram, founded in 1918 by Mahatma Gandhi, who re-vitalized the textile industry here, became the headquarters during the struggle for Indian Independence and it has various sections, hand made paper, spinning wheels, Khadi etc.
-Its Shopping time and we take you to the beautiful Night Market of Ahmedabad - Law garden –a special and very colorful night market for tourists and locals selling traditional clothing, and other fancy stuff.
-Over night at Hotel, Dinner at hotel
Ahmedabad –Paatan

Day 5
Modehra Sun temple, Rani-Ki-Vav (Queens Step wells), Patola weaving, Mashru weaving, Paper cutting, Drive to Bajana Over night at Royal Safari Camp
17/09/2009
Today after B/Fast we drive from -Ahmedabad to Modhera Sun temple Modhera Sun Temple a beautiful example of the Solanki Dynasty architecture which dates back to early 11th century and was built by Kind Bhimdev I in 1025 -26 AD.

From -Modhera Sun temple to Step wells .It is the greatest reminder of the golden period of Gujarat under the Solanki King and we can see it at the Rani-ki-Vav (Queens Step well). Built in 1050 AD and named for Rani Udayamati, wife of King Bhindev, this step well is the oldest and perhaps the grandest among the 120 Step wells in Gujarat.

-Lunch At Mr Salvis House (Veg Home cooked lunch)

Patola weaving –one of the rarest crafts of double Ikat. In this technique the yarn is tie dyed from both the sides; the warp and the weft and than they are matched during the weaving to create a unique design. There is practically only one family left who practices it any more. Like the Chinese did not teach the art of silk weaving to the daughters, in the same fashion this family did not teach their craft to the daughters. Patola as it is called was made to order for the royalty of Thailand historically.

-Mashru – another rare fabric with an amazing history, the followers of Islam are not permitted to wear silk next to their skin .Thus this double fabric was discovered in which the fabric touching one’s skin is cotton and the fabric visible outside is silk.
-Drive to Bajana near the little Rann of Kutch we stay over night at the Royal Safari Camp.
Dinner at Hotel

Enroute to Bhuj we visit Dhamadka the block printing village, where Ajrakh is printed. Ajrakh is a very rare example of block printing and done entirely using natural dyes and resources. The only other place in the world where it is practiced is one village in Rajasthan, and one in Sindh Pakistan. The process is quite complicated and one piece can individually take almost one month for completion.
Over Night at Hotel, Dinner on Own

Day 7

Bhuj registration, Museum, Tie and dye/baandhani
19/09/2009
Bhuj, the major town of Kutch, is an old walled city. There are walls within walls, attractive gateways, old palaces with intricate carvings, and striking brightly coloured Hindu temples. This is India before the tourist invasion.
Bhuj registration –every foreigner entering Kutch has to be registered at the government office.
Bhuj Museum –made in a historical building, it houses a beautiful collection of Kutchi art.
Lunch at Hotel Prince
Tie and dye/baandhani – Bandhana and Bandha are Sanskrit words which means to tie and it is from this Indian word that the English name for a spotted handkerchief “Bandanna” derives its name. The term Baandhani refers to the technique and the finished cloth. By pinching up and resist tying areas of the fabric before dyeing, circular designs are produced. The fine art of baandhani is practiced only in Gujarat and Rajasthan .in Gujarat, Kutch has the finest baandhani. The process is very tedious and is almost like meditation. Very fine dots are tied on a piece of fabric by hand using fine thread and than dyed in different colours. The craft is not found all over Gujarat, but only in a small portion, practiced by just one community.
Dinner on your own

Day 8

Bhujodi hand woven shawls and fabrics, Ajrakhpur
20/09/2009
Today we visit the Kutchi Rabari at Bhujodi Village here you can see the women doing embroidery work and men busy with their handlooms - woven shawls, carpets, stoles fabrics are made in this village.
Lunch at Hotel
Ajrakhpur –after the earthquake this became the extension of Dhamadka, as the entire village of Dhamadka was destroyed ,some people shifted to this empty land , and soon an entire village was developed .Many a families are living in separation ,as if half in Dhamadka and half in Ajrakhpur .
Dinner at Hotel Prince a special Gujarati meal

Day 9
Bhungas, Embroideries
21/09/2009
In the morning we visit various fascinating tribal villages that surround Bhuj. Each tribe can be identified by its traditional attire and specializes in a different form of handicraft.

The Banni tribal dwellings are made of round mud huts called `Bhungas‚ with a single central support pole and a thatched or tiled roof, all surrounding a large community courtyard. The women tend to be shy with male visitors, but are hospitable and will welcome you into their homes. They have an exquisite personal collection of embroidered quilts and garments. Walls, shelves, grain containers and cupboards are fashioned in mud with decorative designs washed with lime paste and embedded with mirrors which throw hundreds of shimmering reflections. You will also see a variety of handicrafts, including textiles, vegetable color dye printing, Rogan art, bead work, woolen shawls, leather articles and more.

Day 10
Maandvi – Beach and Batik
22/09/2009
Batik is one of those crafts which were brought to India from south East Asia. The other crafts usually went the other way around. Here it is practiced in the form of wax resist printing done with blocks.
The beach of Maandvi is well known for the windmills and the newly made resorts with tents .we can spend the night there if possible.
Lunch at Mandavi Beach Resort
Over night at Bhuj

Day 11
23/09/2009

Morning at leisure to explore local market in Bhuj
After, Lunch at Hotel and than Departure to Bombay/Delhi
Fly to Mumbai from Bhuj. Terminal change on arrival and fly to Delhi. Our representative will greet you on arrival and you will,Proceed to International Airport to connect your flight for onward destination.

PRICE INCLUDES

1. Assisted Airport Transfers in Delhi by our Representatives.
2. Transfers and Sightseeing by Air Conditioned Toyota Innova car/ Air Con Mini Coach as per the program.
3. Services of 1 Local English Speaking Guide as per the program
4. Lunch at Local Restaurant (Fixed Menu)
5. Monument Entrance Fees (As applicable to the program)
6. Air Tickets between Delhi – Ahmedabad + Bhuj – Delhi.
7. Presently Applicable Taxes.

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
1. Personal expenses such as table drinks, room services items, laundry, mineral water, telephone calls at hotels or tip etc.
2. Any additional expenses caused by or liability for disturbance in trip program due to or circumstances, weather conditions, sickness, natural disasters, riots etc.
3. Travel insurance

4. Camera Fees (To be paid directly).
5. Supplement of Room Usage on Last Day (Given Separately).

6. International air fair

7. Trip cancellation

Cost of tour

Minimum Number of Person for Group tour is 15
Cost of Tour 2750 US $ per person on Twin Sharing Basis and For Single Room Supplementary will be 2750 US$ + 850 US $

Terms and Conditions

50% advance on booking, the rest 25 days before the commencement of the tour.

Please note that after the finalization of the Tour/ service Cost. If there is any Hike in entrance fees of monuments / museums, Taxes, fuel cost or guide charges - by Govt of India, the same would be charged as extra.

All itineraries are sample itineraries, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before the tour or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change any schedule in the interest of the trip participants' safety, comfort & general well being.

Mode of payment

Overseas advance payment can be made through Wire Transfer to our bank.

Cancellation

30 days prior to arrival: 10% of the Tour / service cost
20 days prior to arrival: 20% of the Tour / service cost
10 days prior to arrival: 50% of the Tour / service cost

Less than 48hours or No Show: No Refund

In case you cancel the trip after commencement, refund would be restricted to a limited amount only which too would depend on the amount that we would be able to recover from the hoteliers/ contractors we patronize. For unused hotel accommodation, chartered transportation & missed meals etc. we do not bear any responsibility to refund.

Mumbai Ahmedabad Mumbai 13.9.2009-23.10.09

Guide:

Kamaldeep Kaur

A specialized textile tour of Gujarat’s most prominent textile centers

Tour 1 Ahmedabad, Paatan, and Kutch 13.9.2009-23.9.2009

Introduction to the tour – This tour gives the visitor a good introduction to Gujarat in general .One sees completely different phases of life patterns here. Ahmedabad is one of the biggest cities of Gujarat- the architectural details, the crafts and the craftsmanship, is still available all around us .While traveling across town from one destination to another, you might come across an elephant, many cows and auto rickshaws, the last being the favorite mode of transport for the Ahmedabadi .Most foreigners get shocked by the amount of noise they come across in this city , but after some time they start liking it as they start feeling the lifestyle ,and the bond that people make through the same .
Paatan the ancient capital of Gujarat until 1411 is a small town with fascinating architectural monuments. We will witness the survival of the two most rare textile crafts here.
Kutch which is a cluster of villages is most fascinating as each village seems to be a world of its own. Each village practices its own craft; the inhabitants are from different communities sharing space together to fulfill each others basic needs.

Day 1 -Mumbai

13/09/2009 Arrival in Mumbai by your respective flights early morning
Sunday Mumbai 13.9.2009
Sunday
Morning after breakfast, you will proceed towards the Gateway of India via Marine Drive (A stroll down Marine Drive is possibly the best way to discover Mumbai. This is a windswept promenade, flanked by the sea and a row of art deco buildings. Looped between the concrete jungle of Nariman Point, Mumbai's Manhattan, and the leafy green slopes of Malabar hill, Marine Drive was once called the queen's Necklace, strung with glittering street lights like an enormous strand of imperious jewels).
After a small photo session at the Gateway of India (For about 10 minutes), You will board your Ferry to The Elephanta Island (The Elephanta Caves are a complex of Shiva temple caves on Elephanta Island, an hour-long ferry ride from Mumbai (Bombay), India. A visit to Elephanta Island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is a worthy destination in itself, and it also provides a view of the city's skyline from the water and a welcome escape from the chaos of Mumbai's streets. The hour-long ferry ride provides a good introduction to Hinduism, as the guides on board describe the religious significance of what you're about to see. The origins and artists of the temple caves, thought to date from about the 7th century, remain obscure. We do know, however, that the island was originally called Gharapuri; the Portuguese renamed it Elephanta after they found a large stone elephant near their landing place. (The figure collapsed in 1814 and was
subsequently moved to the far-off Victoria Gardens and reassembled).
You will take your ferry back to Gateway of India (After sightseeing of Elephanta). On arrival at the jetty point, you will board your vehicle and drive to the local restaurant for Lunch. Post lunch, you will be transferred to the domestic airport via sightseeing of,
Dhobi Ghat (Unique feature of Mumbai, the dhobi is a traditional laundryman, who will collect your dirty linen, wash it, and return it neatly pressed to your doorstep. All for a pittance. The "laundries" are called "ghats": row upon row of concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. The clothes are soaked in sudsy water, thrashed on the flogging stones, then tossed into huge vats of boiling starch and hung out to dry. Next they are ironed and piled into neat bundles) and Mani Bhawan (If time permits/ Located on leafy Laburnum Road, a quiet lane named after its shady trees, Mani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia, including an old charkha or spinning wheel that Gandhiji used to use. Today, its only a symbolic exhibit that lies unused, but many old
Gandhians still visit the place to pay homage to the father of nation).

On arrival at the airport, you will check-in for your onward journey to Ahmedabad. Sleep in Ahmedabad
13/09/2009

MEAL PLAN: BREAKFAST + LUNCH (INDIAN / CHINESE SPECIALITY)

Day 2

Heritage walk, textile museum, Kalamkaari, Gandhi Ashram
14/09/2009
-Heritage walk –A refreshing walk designed by an architect, to take you through the living heritage of the old city. We will take on a walk through polls
-After the walk we drive to visit - Calico museum/ Shreyas museum-Some of the oldest examples of textile techniques and paintings from all over India are found here. It has a technical gallery also, which houses all the tools and displays the techniques. It is a private museum.
- Lunch at House of MG Heritage hotel (Local Gujarati Vegetarian lunch)
After lunch we proceed to see- Kalamkaari is an ancient technique and is practiced only in shrikalahasti (south of India) and Ahmedabad. The paintings are depictions of religious stories, from ancient Hindu mythology. We will have a live demonstration by the Kalamkaari craftsmen; and delve hands on in the most exceptional technique with the only family left practicing the same. This process is done entirely in natural dyes, which are plant based and mineral based.
Over night at hotel
Dinner at Hotel

Day 3

- Lunch at Hotel

Day 4
Block making, Gandhi Ashram, Law garden
16/09/2009

Day 5
Modehra Sun temple, Rani-Ki-Vav (Queens Step wells), Patola weaving, Mashru weaving, Paper cutting, Drive to Bajana Over night at Royal Safari Camp
17/09/2009
Today after B/Fast we drive from -Ahmedabad to Modhera Sun temple Modhera Sun Temple a beautiful example of the Solanki Dynasty architecture which dates back to early 11th century and was built by Kind Bhimdev I in 1025 -26 AD.
From -Modhera Sun temple to Step wells .It is the greatest reminder of the golden period of Gujarat under the Solanki King and we can see it at the Rani-ki-Vav (Queens Step well). Built in 1050 AD and named for Rani Udayamati, wife of King Bhindev, this step well is the oldest and perhaps the grandest among the 120 Step wells in Gujarat.
-Lunch At Mr Salvis House (Veg Home cooked lunch)
Patola weaving –one of the rarest crafts of double Ikat. In this technique the yarn is tie dyed from both the sides; the warp and the weft and than they are matched during the weaving to create a unique design. There is practically only one family left who practices it any more. Like the Chinese did not teach the art of silk weaving to the daughters, in the same fashion this family did not teach their craft to the daughters. Patola as it is called was made to order for the royalty of Thailand historically.
-Mashru – another rare fabric with an amazing history, the followers of Islam are not permitted to wear silk next to their skin .Thus this double fabric was discovered in which the fabric touching one’s skin is cotton and the fabric visible outside is silk.
-Drive to Bajana near the little Rann of Kutch we stay over night at the Royal Safari Camp.
Dinner at Hotel

Day 6
Bajana to Bhuj, Ajrakh printing
18/09/2009
Bajana is a village situated very close to the Little Rann of Kutch and the Wild Life sanctuary which houses the Asiatic Wild Ass the only place in Asia. We visit the sanctuary and some near by villages to see the Life style and also some textiles of the region.
Lunch at Hotel
Post lunch Drive to Bhuj
Enroute to Bhuj we visit Dhamadka the block printing village, where Ajrakh is printed. Ajrakh is a very rare example of block printing and done entirely using natural dyes and resources. The only other place in the world where it is practiced is one village in Rajasthan, and one in Sindh Pakistan. The process is quite complicated and one piece can individually take almost one month for completion.
Over Night at Hotel, Dinner on Own

Day 7

Day 9
Bhungas, Embroideries
21/09/2009
In the morning we visit various fascinating tribal villages that surround Bhuj. Each tribe can be identified by its traditional attire and specializes in a different form of handicraft.
The Banni tribal dwellings are made of round mud huts called `Bhungas‚ with a single central support pole and a thatched or tiled roof, all surrounding a large community courtyard. The women tend to be shy with male visitors, but are hospitable and will welcome you into their homes. They have an exquisite personal collection of embroidered quilts and garments. Walls, shelves, grain containers and cupboards are fashioned in mud with decorative designs washed with lime paste and embedded with mirrors which throw hundreds of shimmering reflections. You will also see a variety of handicrafts, including textiles, vegetable color dye printing, Rogan art, bead work, woolen shawls, leather articles and more.

Day 10
Maandvi – Beach and Batik
22/09/2009

Batik is one of those crafts which were brought to India from south East Asia. The other crafts usually went the other way around. Here it is practiced in the form of wax resist printing done with blocks.
The beach of Maandvi is well known for the windmills and the newly made resorts with tents .we can spend the night there if possible.
Lunch at Mandavi Beach Resort
Over night at Bhuj

Day 11
23/09/2009

PRICE INCLUDES

4. Camera Fees (To be paid directly).
5. Supplement of Room Usage on Last Day (Given Separately).

6. International air fair

7. Trip cancellation

Cost of tour

Minimum Number of Person for Group tour is 15
Cost of Tour 2750 US $ per person on Twin Sharing Basis and For Single Room Supplementary will be 2750 US$ + 850 US $

Terms and Conditions

50% advance on booking, the rest 25 days before the commencement of the tour.Please note that after the finalization of the Tour/ service Cost. If there is any Hike in entrance fees of monuments / museums, Taxes, fuel cost or guide charges - by Govt of India, the same would be charged as extra.

Mode of payment

Overseas advance payment can be made through Wire Transfer to our bank.

Cancellation

30 days prior to arrival: 10% of the Tour / service cost
20 days prior to arrival: 20% of the Tour / service cost
10 days prior to arrival: 50% of the Tour / service cost

Less than 48hours or No Show: No Refund

Delhi ahmedabad Delhi Textile tour 4.10.09-14.10.09

Guide

Kamaldeep Kaur

A specialized textile tour of Gujarat’s most prominent textile centers

Tour 1 Ahmedabad, Paatan, and Kutch 04.10.2009-14.10.2009

Day 1 -Delhi

04/10/2009 Arrival in Delhi by your respective flights early morning
Sunday DELHI 04/10/2009
Morning after breakfast, you will proceed for a guided Heritage Tour through the narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Your leader would be your guide who would unfold the colorful history of Old Delhi which goes back thousands of years. Visit Chandani Chowk---Silver Square (Once the centre of Delhi), to the various places of interest- just as the Royal Mughals would have done centuries ago. To name a few are Maulana Azad Tomb, Jama Masjid- India ’s largest mosque, Dariba Kalan (The Silver Bazaar), Kinari Bazaar, Paranthawalla Gali...
You will drive pass the The Red Fort (Delhi's most magnificent monument was built by Emperor Shah Jehan.Some of the buildings it encloses are Diwani-am,Diwani-Khas, Rang Mahal,The Pearl Mosque etc.) and Raj Ghat ( Set in the midst of deep green lawns, Rajghat is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. A memorial to the father of the nation, Rajghat is a simple square platform with a black memorial stone with "Hey Ram" inscribed on it. "Hey Ram" were the last words uttered by the Mahatma before collapsing after being shot at).
The Sightseeing of Old Delhi will be followed by your lunch with Indian/Chinese Speciality Cuisine at one of the Local Restaurants.
Continue your sightseeing in the afternoon with a visit of New Delhi covering Rashtrapati Bhawan (is the official residence of the President of India. Formerly the residence of the Viceroy of India, it has a magnificient view of the Rajpath and symmetrical North and South block Govt offices), India Gate (is a majestic high arch,42 metres high, built as a memorial to the Indian Soldiers killed in world war 1) and The Qutab Minar (The 72.5m high tower dates back to the 13th century and is one of the greatest bequests of the Islamic culture).

On arrival at the airport, you will check-in for your onward journey to Ahmedabad.
MEAL PLAN: BREAKFAST + LUNCH (INDIAN / CHINESE SPECIALITY)

Day 2

Heritage walk, textile museum, Kalamkaari, Gandhi Ashram
05/10/2009
-Heritage walk –A refreshing walk designed by an architect, to take you through the living heritage of the old city. We will take on a walk through polls
-After the walk we drive to visit - Calico museum/ Shreyas museum-Some of the oldest examples of textile techniques and paintings from all over India are found here. It has a technical gallery also, which houses all the tools and displays the techniques. It is a private museum.
- Lunch at House of MG Heritage hotel (Local Gujarati Vegetarian lunch)
After lunch we proceed to see- Kalamkaari is an ancient technique and is practiced only in shrikalahasti (south of India) and Ahmedabad. The paintings are depictions of religious stories, from ancient Hindu mythology. We will have a live demonstration by the Kalamkaari craftsmen; and delve hands on in the most exceptional technique with the only family left practicing the same. This process is done entirely in natural dyes, which are plant based and mineral based.
Over night at hotel
Dinner at Hotel

Day 3

Block printing, NID, book shop, Lace shop, Antiques
06/10/2009
Today we take you on -A visit to some unique block printing centers- Ahmedabad has been historically house to many communities that were adorned in block printing costumes. Each of these block print designs were not only different in terms of design, but also in terms of printing techniques. We will witness some of the procedures by visiting the block printing units.
Ahmedabad block printing; as we call it now , practiced by one of the families for generations .the colours use are acid washed for fastness ,and the process is quite long .The result is a fabric with very fast colours. Cotton fabrics are available on very good prices as this is the manufacturing unit.

- Lunch at Hotel

Day 4
Block making, Gandhi Ashram, Law garden
07/10/2009
-Today we start our day by visiting the Block making artisans –a beautiful village (Pethapur) or some other place do u have in mind which has a long history of block makers .Blocks are supplied form here to most of the block printing houses in Gujarat .We can observe the process of fine carving and also buy some hand made wooden blocks.
-Lunch at Cambay Spa Resort Gandhinagar (non-veg)
-After Lunch we visit- Gandhi Ashram –a tribute to the person who had spread the message of non violence to the entire world. This ashram, founded in 1918 by Mahatma Gandhi, who re-vitalized the textile industry here, became the headquarters during the struggle for Indian Independence and it has various sections, hand made paper, spinning wheels, Khadi etc.
-Its Shopping time and we take you to the beautiful Night Market of Ahmedabad - Law garden –a special and very colorful night market for tourists and locals selling traditional clothing, and other fancy stuff.
-Over night at Hotel, Dinner at hotel
Ahmedabad –Paatan

Day 5
Modehra Sun temple, Rani-Ki-Vav (Queens Step wells), Patola weaving, Mashru weaving, Paper cutting, Drive to Bajana Over night at Royal Safari Camp
08/10/2009
Today after B/Fast we drive from -Ahmedabad to Modhera Sun temple Modhera Sun Temple a beautiful example of the Solanki Dynasty architecture which dates back to early 11th century and was built by Kind Bhimdev I in 1025 -26 AD.
From -Modhera Sun temple to Step wells .It is the greatest reminder of the golden period of Gujarat under the Solanki King and we can see it at the Rani-ki-Vav (Queens Step well). Built in 1050 AD and named for Rani Udayamati, wife of King Bhindev, this step well is the oldest and perhaps the grandest among the 120 Step wells in Gujarat.
-Lunch At Mr Salvis House (Veg Home cooked lunch)
Patola weaving –one of the rarest crafts of double Ikat. In this technique the yarn is tie dyed from both the sides; the warp and the weft and than they are matched during the weaving to create a unique design. There is practically only one family left who practices it any more. Like the Chinese did not teach the art of silk weaving to the daughters, in the same fashion this family did not teach their craft to the daughters. Patola as it is called was made to order for the royalty of Thailand historically.
-Mashru – another rare fabric with an amazing history, the followers of Islam are not permitted to wear silk next to their skin .Thus this double fabric was discovered in which the fabric touching one’s skin is cotton and the fabric visible outside is silk.
-Drive to Bajana near the little Rann of Kutch we stay over night at the Royal Safari Camp.
Dinner at Hotel

Day 6
Bajana to Bhuj, Ajrakh printing
09/10/2009
Bajana is a village situated very close to the Little Rann of Kutch and the Wild Life sanctuary which houses the Asiatic Wild Ass the only place in Asia. We visit the sanctuary and some near by villages to see the Life style and also some textiles of the region.
Lunch at Hotel
Post lunch Drive to Bhuj
Enroute to Bhuj we visit Dhamadka the block printing village, where Ajrakh is printed. Ajrakh is a very rare example of block printing and done entirely using natural dyes and resources. The only other place in the world where it is practiced is one village in Rajasthan, and one in Sindh Pakistan. The process is quite complicated and one piece can individually take almost one month for completion.
Over Night at Hotel, Dinner on Own

Day 7

Bhuj registration, Museum, Tie and dye/baandhani
10/10/2009
Bhuj, the major town of Kutch, is an old walled city. There are walls within walls, attractive gateways, old palaces with intricate carvings, and striking brightly coloured Hindu temples. This is India before the tourist invasion.
Bhuj registration –every foreigner entering Kutch has to be registered at the government office.
Bhuj Museum –made in a historical building, it houses a beautiful collection of Kutchi art.
Lunch at Hotel Prince
Tie and dye/baandhani – Bandhana and Bandha are Sanskrit words which means to tie and it is from this Indian word that the English name for a spotted handkerchief “Bandanna” derives its name. The term Baandhani refers to the technique and the finished cloth. By pinching up and resist tying areas of the fabric before dyeing, circular designs are produced. The fine art of baandhani is practiced only in Gujarat and Rajasthan .in Gujarat, Kutch has the finest baandhani. The process is very tedious and is almost like meditation. Very fine dots are tied on a piece of fabric by hand using fine thread and than dyed in different colours. The craft is not found all over Gujarat, but only in a small portion, practiced by just one community.
Dinner on your own

Day 8

Bhujodi hand woven shawls and fabrics, Ajrakhpur
11/10/2009
Today we visit the Kutchi Rabari at Bhujodi Village here you can see the women doing embroidery work and men busy with their handlooms - woven shawls, carpets, stoles fabrics are made in this village.
Lunch at Hotel
Ajrakhpur –after the earthquake this became the extension of Dhamadka, as the entire village of Dhamadka was destroyed ,some people shifted to this empty land , and soon an entire village was developed .Many a families are living in separation ,as if half in Dhamadka and half in Ajrakhpur .
Dinner at Hotel Prince a special Gujarati meal

Day 9
Bhungas, Embroideries
12/10/2009
In the morning we visit various fascinating tribal villages that surround Bhuj. Each tribe can be identified by its traditional attire and specializes in a different form of handicraft.
The Banni tribal dwellings are made of round mud huts called `Bhungas‚ with a single central support pole and a thatched or tiled roof, all surrounding a large community courtyard. The women tend to be shy with male visitors, but are hospitable and will welcome you into their homes. They have an exquisite personal collection of embroidered quilts and garments. Walls, shelves, grain containers and cupboards are fashioned in mud with decorative designs washed with lime paste and embedded with mirrors which throw hundreds of shimmering reflections. You will also see a variety of handicrafts, including textiles, vegetable color dye printing, Rogan art, bead work, woolen shawls, leather articles and more.

Day 10

Maandvi – Beach and Batik
13/10/2009
Batik is one of those crafts which were brought to India from south East Asia. The other crafts usually went the other way around. Here it is practiced in the form of wax resist printing done with blocks.
The beach of Maandvi is well known for the windmills and the newly made resorts with tents .we can spend the night there if possible.
Lunch at Mandavi Beach Resort
Over night at Bhuj

Day 11
14/10/2009

PRICE INCLUDES

1. Assisted Airport Transfers in Delhi by our Representatives.
2. Transfers and Sightseeing by Air Conditioned Toyota Innova car/ Air Con Mini Coach
as per the program.
3. Services of 1 Local English Speaking Guide as per the program
4. Lunch at Local Restaurant (Fixed Menu)
5. Monument Entrance Fees (As applicable to the program)
6. Air Tickets between Delhi – Ahmedabad + Bhuj – Delhi.
7. Presently Applicable Taxes.

4. Camera Fees (To be paid directly).
5. Supplement of Room Usage on Last Day (Given Separately).

6. International air fair

7. Trip cancellation

Cost of tour

Minimum Number of Person for Group tour is 15
Cost of Tour 2750 US $ per person on Twin Sharing Basis and For Single Room Supplementary will be 2750 US$ + 850 US $

Terms and Conditions

Mode of payment

Overseas advance payment can be made through Wire Transfer to our bank.

Cancellation

30 days prior to arrival: 10% of the Tour / service cost
20 days prior to arrival: 20% of the Tour / service cost
10 days prior to arrival: 50% of the Tour / service cost

Less than 48hours or No Show: No Refund

Mumbai -Ahmedabad -Mumbai 4.10.09-14.10.09

Guide

Kamaldeep Kaur

A specialized textile tour of Gujarat’s most prominent textile centers

Tour 1 Ahmedabad, Paatan, and Kutch 04.10.2009-14.10.2009

Day 1 -Mumbai

04/10/2009 Arrival in Mumbai by your respective flights early morning
Sunday Mumbai 04/10/2009
Sunday
Morning after breakfast, you will proceed towards the Gateway of India via Marine Drive (A stroll down Marine Drive is possibly the best way to discover Mumbai. This is a windswept promenade, flanked by the sea and a row of art deco buildings. Looped between the concrete jungle of Nariman Point, Mumbai's Manhattan, and the leafy green slopes of Malabar hill, Marine Drive was once called the queen's Necklace, strung with glittering street lights like an enormous strand of imperious jewels).
After a small photo session at the Gateway of India (For about 10 minutes), You will board your Ferry to The Elephanta Island (The Elephanta Caves are a complex of Shiva temple caves on Elephanta Island, an hour-long ferry ride from Mumbai (Bombay), India. A visit to Elephanta Island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is a worthy destination in itself, and it also provides a view of the city's skyline from the water and a welcome escape from the chaos of Mumbai's streets. The hour-long ferry ride provides a good introduction to Hinduism, as the guides on board describe the religious significance of what you're about to see. The origins and artists of the temple caves, thought to date from about the 7th century, remain obscure. We do know, however, that the island was originally called Gharapuri; the Portuguese renamed it Elephanta after they found a large stone elephant near their landing place. (The figure collapsed in 1814 and was
subsequently moved to the far-off Victoria Gardens and reassembled).
You will take your ferry back to Gateway of India (After sightseeing of Elephanta). On arrival at the jetty point, you will board your vehicle and drive to the local restaurant for Lunch. Post lunch, you will be transferred to the domestic airport via sightseeing of,
Dhobi Ghat (Unique feature of Mumbai, the dhobi is a traditional laundryman, who will collect your dirty linen, wash it, and return it neatly pressed to your doorstep. All for a pittance. The "laundries" are called "ghats": row upon row of concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. The clothes are soaked in sudsy water, thrashed on the flogging stones, then tossed into huge vats of boiling starch and hung out to dry. Next they are ironed and piled into neat bundles) and Mani Bhawan (If time permits/ Located on leafy Laburnum Road, a quiet lane named after its shady trees, Mani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia, including an old charkha or spinning wheel that Gandhiji used to use. Today, its only a symbolic exhibit that lies unused, but many old
Gandhians still visit the place to pay homage to the father of nation).

On arrival at the airport, you will check-in for your onward journey to Ahmedabad. Sleep in Ahmedabad
04/10/2009 MEAL PLAN: BREAKFAST + LUNCH (INDIAN / CHINESE SPECIALITY)

Day 2

Day 3

- Lunch at Hotel

Day 7

Day 8

Day 10
Maandvi – Beach and Batik
13/10/2009
Batik is one of those crafts which were brought to India from south East Asia. The other crafts usually went the other way around. Here it is practiced in the form of wax resist printing done with blocks.
The beach of Maandvi is well known for the windmills and the newly made resorts with tents .we can spend the night there if possible.
Lunch at Mandavi Beach Resort
Over night at Bhuj

Day 11
14/10/2009

PRICE INCLUDES

4. Camera Fees (To be paid directly).
5. Supplement of Room Usage on Last Day (Given Separately).

6. International air fair

7. Trip cancellation

Cost of tour

Minimum Number of Person for Group tour is 15
Cost of Tour 2750 US $ per person on Twin Sharing Basis and For Single Room Supplementary will be 2750 US$ + 850 US $

Terms and Conditions

Mode of payment

Overseas advance payment can be made through Wire Transfer to our bank.

Cancellation

30 days prior to arrival: 10% of the Tour / service cost
20 days prior to arrival: 20% of the Tour / service cost
10 days prior to arrival: 50% of the Tour / service cost

Less than 48hours or No Show: No Refund

Hand Block Printing- A special Tour